50 Best Fast Food Restaurants in Chicago

“Honey Butter Fried Chicken serves phenomenal food, with a standout menu item being their signature honey butter chicken. The combination of melted butter, crispy texture, and juicy chicken is a must-try. Sides like pimento cheese fries, with a hint of tomato, are also a highlight. The restaurant boasts an amazing staff, attentive and professional, ensuring a satisfying dining experience. Fresh, hot, and delicious, the chicken, biscuits, and side dishes are a must-try for any chicken lover.“

“Kong Dog UIC is a unique counter-serve restaurant that offers a variety of creative Korean-inspired hot dogs. The menu features interesting combinations like the ramen, churro, rainbow, and hot Cheetos dogs, as well as peach and mango lemonades. While some customers found the food a bit bland or dry, they praised the fresh, made-to-order preparation and the friendly, helpful staff. The restaurant has a cute, casual atmosphere, though parking can be challenging. Overall, Kong Dog UIC provides a fun and novel dining experience, particularly for younger customers who appreciate the vibrant, colorful options.“

“Jim's Original is a Chicago institution known for its excellent Polish hotdogs, great food, and affordable prices. The restaurant, which hasn't changed in decades, offers old-school vibes and straightforward service. The pork chop with bone sandwich and Polish sausage are highly recommended. While it's a great spot for a quick eat and run, be prepared to enjoy your meal on the side of the road or in your car, as indoor seating is limited. The location is wheelchair accessible, being on a flat street.“

“Tony's Italian Beef offers a delicious Italian beef sandwich with fresh bread and generous beef portions. Customer service is friendly and prices are reasonable. However, there have been minor issues with order accuracy and spiciness of the giardiniera. Parking is available in a lot by the building. The restaurant is small but has been a local staple for years. Prices have increased due to COVID-19.“

“Red Light Chicken offers a variety of solid fried chicken sandwiches with delightful sauces. Customers have described the food as spiritually aligned and a poultry paradise, especially enjoying the crispy shoestring fries. The outdoor seating adds to the quaint and charming atmosphere, where the efficient staff quickly serve up delicious meals.“

“Lawrence's Fish & Shrimp is a popular restaurant known for its fresh, hot, and delicious seafood dishes. Despite occasional long wait times, the generous portions and quality of the food, such as their shrimp and fish and chips, make it a staple in the community. The restaurant is conveniently located and has ample parking, as well as wheelchair accessibility.“

“Kong Dog is a restaurant known for its creative corn dogs with unique fillings. Popular choices include the hot Cheetos, all cheese, and mozzarella and beef options. The staff is professional, and the service is generally good. However, there have been some reports of subpar service and a lack of cleanliness in the interior. The restaurant offers large portion sizes, and the Kong fries, which are coated in Hot Cheeto dust, are a popular side dish. Vegetarian options are limited, with only mozzarella stick available at this location, as the veggie dogs were not available during one visit. Overall, Kong Dog offers unique and tasty corn dogs, but the dining experience may vary.“

“Mr D's Shish-Kabobs is a family-run spot with amazing food. The Steak sandwich is a standout, described as "to die for" and "one of the best" in Chicago. Fresh cut fries are also praised, with one reviewer noting they're "amazing" and "crispy outside and fluffy and soft inside". The restaurant is known for its sandwiches, including the Steak Sandwich, Shish Kabob Sandwich, Italian Sausage, and beef or combo options, all of which are highly recommended.“

“Mr. Beef is a popular spot with an old-school vibe and friendly staff. They offer good prices and delicious sandwiches, like the Italian Beef and hot dog. The double cheeseburger is well seasoned and perfectly grilled. Customers praise the high-quality thinly sliced meat in the sandwiches. Despite a small parking lot, the service is fast. The restaurant gained attention from The Bear, and it lives up to the hype with flavorful dishes. While there might be some grease, the taste is worth it. Mr. Beef is a must-visit for top-notch sliced beef sandwiches.“

“Seoul Stick offers an amazing combination of friendly staff and delicious food. The stick-bokki and corn dogs covered in Korean spices are a must-try. The place provides K-pop videos for entertainment while waiting for your order. The staff is super sweet, and the Korean BBQ sauce makes the sticks delicious. A solid spot for a satisfying meal.“

“Modern Relish in Chicago is a transformed hot dog stand with a modern look and dog-friendly patios. Known for their Italian beef and hot dogs, it offers great value and plant-based options, perfect for Lent. The renovations have made it an excellent neighborhood spot for street food, with added beer options. The friendly staff and fast service make it a must-visit spot for locals and visitors alike.“

“Devil Dawgs on State is a restaurant in Chicago that offers delicious food with friendly service. Although the seating is limited and the restaurant can get cramped and loud, customers enjoy the tasty Chicago dog, chili cheese fries, and vanilla milkshake. The staff is fast and friendly, and they offer deals on tater tots. Prices are average but considered a good value for the quality of the food. The location is cute and a popular spot for a quick and satisfying meal.“

“Ferro's is a convenient stop for good fast food at a decent price. The large rib tips and buffalo chicken sandwich are favorites, along with the Italian ice. The #7 buffalo chicken sandwich comes with tomato, ranch, lettuce, and onion, served with plenty of fries and a drink. The deli atmosphere adds a nostalgic touch for returning customers. A great spot for a quick meal with ample parking available.“

“Lulu's Hot Dogs is a family favorite spot for hot dogs, gyros, and burgers. Customers love the hot and fresh Polish sausage meals and delicious gyro sandwiches. The owner and his brother are always at the grill, creating tasty meals. With cheap prices and good food, it's a down-to-earth place with a fast-paced atmosphere. Don't miss out on trying their famous burgers!“

“Maxwell Street Depot is a great spot for a quick and tasty meal, known for its hot and flavorful Polish sausage, hot dogs, and pizza puffs. The grilled onions are a highlight but can be quite strong. The location is convenient for visiting before or after Sox games. It is a basic location with friendly staff, and while there isn't much space to stand and eat during winter, it seems to be available in the summer. Parking is easily available for under 20 minutes, and it is kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible. However, be aware that hot peppers may be forgotten at times.“

“Small Cheval - Wrigleyville is a great spot to grab a burger or sandwich, with plenty of options on the menu. The golden fried chicken sandwich, Pastrami and Wagyu burgers, and plant-based burger are all highly recommended. The fries with white cheese sauce and garlic aioli sauce are also great additions.“

“Griddle 24 offers solid diner food at a convenient location, making it a reliable late-night spot. The friendly staff ensures a clean and comfortable dining experience. The bacon cheeseburger with fries and Nutella French toast come highly recommended for their delicious taste. Despite being crowded, the service remains good, and the food is enjoyable. The restaurant is a great choice to end the night, especially over the weekend. With various options like panini sandwiches, skillets, and burgers, there is something for everyone. Additionally, there are vegetarian and gluten-free options available, making it suitable for different dietary restrictions. Griddle 24 is also kid-friendly, offering a kids' menu and a comfortable space for families.“

“Ruby's Fast Food is a beloved Filipino restaurant in Chicago that offers a delightful dining experience. The portions are generous, and the food is consistently delicious. The fried rice and eggs are praised for their exceptional taste, while the Sinigang, a sour soup, is a standout dish that perfectly balances saltiness and sourness. The Tocilog, a favorite of one customer's husband, is also a popular menu item. The service is friendly, and the atmosphere is inviting, making customers feel like they're part of the family. Overall, Ruby's Fast Food is a must-visit destination for anyone craving authentic and satisfying Filipino cuisine in the heart of Chicago.“

“Budacki's Drive In is a Chicago gem known for its quality food and affordable prices. The menu offers a variety of classic Chicago favorites like hot dogs, pizza puffs, Italian beef, and Philly cheese steak. The Seoul Sassy Crisp wings from their sister restaurant, Crisp, are a must-try. With minimal indoor seating and outdoor tables, it's a perfect spot for a quick bite. The prices are budget-friendly and even include tax. Vegetarian options like vegan dogs are also available. Whether you're a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Budacki's Drive In is a top choice for delicious food that won't break the bank.“

“Al-Diar Restaurant offers an authentic Yemeni dining experience with exceptional dishes that impress even those familiar with traditional Yemeni cuisine. The Lamb Mandi stands out, cooked to perfection where the lamb falls right off the bone, accompanied by deliciously cooked rice. The Fahsa is also highly recommended. Portions are generous and the high-quality meat justifies the price. The menu features other delights such as juicy fish, Zurbian Rice, and Lamb Liver. The restaurant also serves the juiciest halal Chicken. While the ambiance is simple, the focus remains on the excellent food and warm Yemeni hospitality. Drinks like vimto and ayran add to the experience, though traditional Adeni tea is available for a more authentic touch. The staff are very nice and the restaurant provides true Yemeni hospitality. For larger groups, it's advisable to call in advance due to limited space. Al-Diar Restaurant is highly recommended for its outstanding food quality, making it a must-visit in Chicago.“

“Jimmy's Gyros & Grill is a welcoming spot known for its friendly staff. The cashier, Lamont, is particularly notable for his respectful and smiling demeanor. The restaurant's menu is clear and well-signposted, making it easy for customers to make their selections. Known for its tasty dishes, including the cheeseburger and cheese fries, Jimmy's Gyros & Grill offers a satisfying dining experience.“

“SALT burgers + fries offers an awesome and super casual dining experience for pickup, takeout, or a quick burger and fries. The Impossible burger is a standout vegetarian option, described as a delicious smash burger. The fries are also praised, though the Fuego fries pack a spicy punch. While the restaurant seems understaffed at times, leading to some service issues, the overall experience is enjoyable, with a 4/5 rating from one reviewer.“

“Nicky's The Real One - The Real McCoy is a beloved establishment in Archer Heights, radiating a welcoming atmosphere that makes locals and newcomers alike feel at home. The restaurant is cherished for its high-quality offerings, particularly its legendary chicken tenders and wings. Upon entering, visitors are enveloped in a warm, comforting environment with savory aromas of seasoned meats and delights. The restaurant's signature chicken wings, served with tangy buffalo sauce, are extraordinary, with massive size, satisfying crunch, and succulent meat. The Greek chicken dinner is also highly praised, with juicy and delicious chicken, and the chicken nuggets are a favorite among kids. With its dedication to quality and warm hospitality, Nicky's has earned a loyal customer base and is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a satisfying meal.“

“Charcoal Delights offers a delightful dining experience with its good food, good service, and reasonable prices. The restaurant is known for its large, flavorful burgers and crinkle-cut fries. Customers appreciate the quick service and the wide menu selection, making it a great option for a fast, high-quality meal.“

“Small Cheval- Riverside is a must-visit spot in Chicago for anyone craving delicious burgers and more. The menu offers mouthwatering burgers, shakes, shots, and beer, ensuring a delightful dining experience. The housestyle double burger is a standout favorite among customers, paired perfectly with crispy fries and a salted caramel milkshake. The friendly staff adds to the welcoming atmosphere, making every visit memorable. The location and view are top-tier, providing a pleasant setting for a meal. With reasonable prices for the quality and portion sizes, Small Cheval- Riverside is a fantastic choice for a satisfying meal in Chicago.“

“Chicago's Dog House is a renowned hot dog establishment in Chicago, offering a diverse menu of delectable options. Their signature Chicago-style hot dogs are praised for their exceptional taste, while the "wagyu" dog, which resembles an Italian beef turned into a hot dog, is a standout. The restaurant also serves up tasty fries, although some find them a bit salty. Despite its small size, Chicago's Dog House is known for its great carry-out service and kid-friendly atmosphere, with Jenga available for entertainment. Overall, this eatery is considered one of the top dog spots in the city.“

“JJ Fish & Chicken offers fresh and delicious food, including well-prepared chicken, fries with just the right amount of sauce, and tasty cheese sticks. The restaurant prioritizes customer satisfaction, providing great service in a clean and professional environment. Many recommend it as the best JJ's on the east side.“

“Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago is a popular restaurant that offers a taste of classic Chicago cuisine. The menu features a variety of options, including onion rings, hot dogs, beef sandwiches, and Italian beef sandwiches, all of which are priced reasonably at less than $25. While the food may not be exceptional, it is generally well-received, with the beef sandwich being the only item that lacks flavor. The restaurant has a nostalgic, old-school atmosphere, reminiscent of the iconic Katz Deli in New York City. Customers praise the fast service, with food often being served in under 10 minutes, and the overall enjoyable dining experience. The restaurant also offers desserts, which have been described as good. Despite the generally positive reviews, one customer had an unpleasant experience with an unknown object found in their shake.“

“Shake Shack River North can be crowded, but service is speedy. The single burger may seem small for the price, but the food tastes okay. Spicy fries are just fries with spice on top. The chicken avocado BLT sandwich is very small for its price. The prices at Shake Shack are high, but the food is delicious.“

“Sila's Mediterranean Restaurant offers a welcoming experience with helpful staff guiding customers through their menu. This Mediterranean-inspired eatery serves high-quality food with attention to detail, carefully preparing each meal. Portion sizes are generous and reasonably priced, with popular items like the chicken pita and spicy feta being must-tries. The counter service allows for customization, and the cozy, well-decorated seating area adds to the charm. Overall, Sila's provides a fantastic dining experience that keeps customers coming back for more.“

“Pockets Restaurant is a popular dining spot known for its kind and helpful staff, offering many healthy meal options. The buffalo chicken calzone, potatoes, and pizza are particularly praised. With only two locations, customers travel far to enjoy the restaurant's tasty food and good service.“

“Mr. Submarine is a welcoming eatery known for its delicious subs, fast service, and clean premises. Friendly employees, including a standout Latina staff member, provide excellent customer service. The restaurant offers vegetarian options and a few parking spots. It's kid-friendly and wheelchair accessible. Fresh bread and spot-on flavors make for a satisfying meal.“

“Patio Restaurant is a classic Chicago spot offering high-quality food at reasonable prices. Their combo sandwich is particularly outstanding, and their Italian beefs are a highlight. The restaurant is known for its friendly customer service and quick turnaround time. With over 50 years of history, Patio Restaurant has become a beloved staple in the neighborhood, serving up delicious food and making memories for generations of families.“

“VN Tofu & Fast Food is a hidden gem that offers an array of delectable Vietnamese snacks and sweets. The menu features freshly steamed banh bao, banh gio, and banh tieu, as well as crispy eggrolls and silky smooth flan. The banh bao is filled with hard-boiled egg and sausage, while the banh gio is still warm and flavorful. The fried tofu, especially the lemongrass variety, is also a standout. Customers praise the affordable prices and the friendly cashier. This cash-only establishment is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic Vietnamese food experience.“

“Burger Bite is a local restaurant that offers a delightful dining experience. The fries have a crisp texture, and the cheeseburger is praised for its juiciness and fresh-off-the-grill flavor. Customers appreciate the toasted buns and the greasy, satisfying burger patty. The small but great menu and the friendly service make Burger Bite a welcoming establishment that keeps customers coming back for more.“

“Café El Meson is a delightful restaurant that offers delicious food and a cozy atmosphere. Popular menu items include their oat frappe, Jibarito, and breakfast croissant. The staff is friendly, and the coffee is highly praised. This Puerto Rican café is a great spot for both working and enjoying a meal. The reviewers appreciated the inviting and warm environment, and they highly recommend Café El Meson.“

“Captain Hooks Fish & Chicken offers delicious fish and food, with standout dishes including lemon pepper chicken and lemon pepper fries. The staff is friendly, hardworking, and dedicated to providing great service. The cashier is particularly commended for their consistency and patience. The restaurant has a nice environment, is always clean, and is open 24/7. Overall, it's a great dining experience.“

“Papa Chris' Place is a hidden gem that serves high-quality food at affordable prices. The Italian beef is a standout, comparable to Portillo's. The owners are friendly and welcoming, making customers feel at home. The restaurant offers great value for the price, with generous portions and quick service. The atmosphere is humble and comfortable, with a classic Chicago Mom-and-Pop feel. The menu features delicious options like burgers and perfect, golden-brown fries, all at unbeatable prices. With its warm hospitality and excellent food, Papa Chris' Place is a must-visit for a quintessential Chicago dining experience.“

“House of Wings serves amazing wings, particularly the suicide flavor, which is highly recommended. The small take-out shop offers solid Buffalo wings with a good buffalo sauce flavor. Decent service and accommodating owners make up for the small space and lack of music. Be prepared for spicy wings, but enjoy the flavor at a slightly higher price point.“

“Jubilee Juice & Grill offers delicious smoothies, perfect for hot Chicago days, with customizable options to suit individual tastes and dietary needs. Their menu also features standouts like the honey mustard chicken and Spinach wrap, as well as tasty waffle fries. The chef-prepared dishes, like the juicy roasted chicken, showcase high-quality ingredients and beautiful presentation.“

“Fatso's Last Stand is a classic Chicago hot dog spot known for its char-grilled dogs and limited indoor seating, with a large patio for use in good weather. The restaurant offers plenty of parking and is popular among locals and tourists alike. While some reviewers found the service to be unfriendly and the food just average, others raved about the delicious hot dogs and praised the shrimp. The polish and chili were also highlighted as unexpected highlights. Overall, Fatso's Last Stand is a no-frills eatery serving up great food in a casual setting.“

“GT's Fast Food is a phenomenal spot in Albany Park, serving up delicious Northside Chicago-style eats. The owner is awesome, and the food is always a hit. With reasonable prices and a cozy atmosphere, it's a great neighborhood spot. Try their burgers, polish dishes, and milkshakes, all made with homemade special sauce.“

“McDonald's is a spacious, clean facility offering hot and fresh breakfast options like sausage muffin and hash browns. The customer service is excellent, with tasty items like cone ice cream and biscuit egg and cheese. The restaurant has an interesting architectural design with solar panels providing power. While it may seem like a bus terminal, the automated service makes it convenient for quick meals. For a more local experience, visitors can explore nearby dining options. Overall, McDonald's offers a variety of menu items and a unique setting for customers to enjoy.“

“Burger Boy Express offers a surprising and delicious experience with their single cheeseburger and seasoned french fries. Open until 3:00 a.m., they provide Halal options, a change from other places. The simple cheeseburger and seasoned fries were a pleasant surprise, with McDonald's-like seasoned fries and a tasty potato bun. The gyro burger and zinger burgers were excellent, and the onion rings remained warm and crunchy even after a drive home. Kid-friendly, they cater to children's requests. A recommended spot for a taste of classic, quality burgers.“

“Choppers is a cozy restaurant that provides great customer service and makes you feel like you're stepping back in time. With affordable prices, it's a great value for the quality of food and service. The menu features items like double cheeseburgers, french fries, mozzarella sticks, fried zucchini, and unique milkshakes like the cinnamon apple pie. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the ambiance is excellent, complete with a classic rock playlist. With great food, a fun atmosphere, and unbeatable prices, Choppers is a must-visit for a blast from the past.“

“Jersey Mike's Subs is a favorite spot for many, with fresh ingredients and friendly service. The sandwiches are top-notch, with sliced meat right in front of you. One customer feels like it's the best place around, with no competition. A sandwich from Jersey Mike's can bring warmth and healing, making it a memorable experience. The district manager, Matthew Parks, goes above and beyond to accommodate customers, like providing free subs for a student film. Overall, Jersey Mike's is a must-try for delicious subs and exceptional service.“

“Boxcar Betty's is a great lunch spot located in the Ogilvie Transportation Center. They serve delicious chicken sandwiches, including the popular "Betty" and "Boxcar" options, which feature fried chicken, homemade pimento cheese, spicy mayo, and tangy peach slaw. Their fresh-cut fries are cooked to perfection, and they also offer a portobello mushroom option for vegetarians. The restaurant is kid-friendly, with chicken tenders on the menu. With polite and courteous service, Boxcar Betty's is a must-visit for a tasty and satisfying lunch.“

“Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers is a well-run establishment serving hot and fresh food with friendly staff. The restaurant offers delicious chicken, Texas toast, coleslaw, and fries, and is a great spot for catering business meetings and parties. With fast and courteous service, it's a highly recommended spot, even for those with dietary restrictions.“

“Stony Sub is a restaurant that offers food for late-night diners, especially those who prefer to wait in their cars until their orders are ready. The eatery is known for its tasty wings and, previously, its popular Jimshoe sandwich. However, some customers have noted changes in the quality of the food, which can now be hit or miss. Additionally, customers should be aware of the restaurant's lively atmosphere, which has included instances of rowdy behavior and unconventional entertainment. Despite these occasional issues, some customers have never had a bad experience with the food.“

“MiMi's Tacos & French Fries is a hidden gem serving delicious food with phenomenal service. Their jerk Birria and walking tacos are highly recommended. The restaurant has a constant flow of customers and offers a variety of flavors, including Italian ice. With excellent customer service, MiMi's is a must-visit spot for tacos and fries.“